Chelsea's Russian owner Roman Abramovich is giving up stewardship of the Premier League club

Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has given trustees of the London side's charitable foundation stewardship of the Premier League club, the Russian has said.

This comes as Chelsea's manager Thomas Tuchel insisted Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has clouded collective minds at Chelsea.

Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has already been the subject of much discussion in UK Parliament and beyond, with a number of Russian oligarchs and companies facing UK sanctions.

Abramovich has not fallen under any sanctions so far, and Chelsea boss Tuchel would not comment on that situation.

But the Blues’ German coach did admit no one at Chelsea will turn away from an “unthinkable” war in Europe.

“We should not pretend this is not an issue,” said Tuchel.

“The situation in general for me and for my staff, and for everybody at Cobham, the players, is horrible.

“Nobody expected this. It’s pretty unreal, like I said it’s clouding our minds, it’s clouding our excitement towards the (Carabao Cup) final.

In a statement, the Russian said:

"During my nearly 20-year ownership of Chelsea FC, I have always viewed my role as a custodian of the Club, whose job it is ensuring that we are as successful as we can be today, as well as build for the future, while also playing a positive role in our communities.

"I have always taken decisions with the Club’s best interest at heart.

"I remain committed to these values. That is why I am today giving trustees of Chelsea’s charitable Foundation the stewardship and care of Chelsea FC.

"I believe that currently they are in the best position to look after the interests of the Club, players, staff, and fans.